The Office of the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Ikechukwu Emetu, has dismissed allegations that he recruited and mobilised youths to attack supporters of President Bola Tinubu and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.
The allegation was made by the Abia State chapter of the Tinubu Support Group, which accused the Deputy Governor of organising youths to carry out attacks against Tinubu supporters and APC members.
However, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Cyril Mba, the Deputy Governor described the allegation as false, baseless and completely unfounded.
The statement said Emetu had no involvement in recruiting, mobilising, arming or organising youths to attack Tinubu supporters, APC members or any other individuals or groups.
“The Deputy Governor has expressly stated that he has no involvement whatsoever in recruiting, mobilising, arming or otherwise organising youths to carry out attacks against supporters of President Tinubu, APC members or any other person or group,” the statement read.
Emetu’s office challenged the Tinubu Support Group and its spokesperson to provide evidence supporting the allegations, including details of where and when the alleged recruitment took place, those who attended the purported meetings and the identities of the youths allegedly recruited.
It also demanded evidence linking the Deputy Governor to the alleged activities, details of the weapons reportedly involved, as well as documentary evidence and the full context and source of any statement allegedly attributed to Emetu concerning President Tinubu or his son, Seyi Tinubu.
The Deputy Governor’s office further urged the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to invite the accusers to substantiate their claims and present whatever evidence they allegedly possess.
It said Emetu was ready to cooperate fully with any lawful investigation into the allegations, stressing that he had nothing to fear from such an inquiry.
“What he rejects is any attempt to substitute unsubstantiated political claims for evidence or to portray legitimate political engagement and mobilisation as preparation for violence,” the statement added.
The office also described the allegations as part of political disagreements ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging political actors to embrace responsible engagement and evidence-based public discourse.
It said Emetu remained focused on his responsibilities as Deputy Governor and on supporting the administration of Governor Alex Otti in delivering its mandate to the people of Abia State.
The statement added that the Deputy Governor would continue to engage with Abians peacefully and participate in lawful political activities ahead of the 2027 elections.
When asked about the action he intended to take over the allegation, Emetu simply said, “This is the best I will be doing for now.”